Bradford (Park Avenue) v Blyth Spartans | Saturday, 6 December 2025 - 15:00 | League

Spartans were defeated at the death after increased pressure from Bradford (Park Avenue) in the final 30 minutes, resulting in Blyth coming away with nothing after taking the lead.

The game started with both sides having only half-chances and no clear-cut opportunities, with neither being able to break the deadlock.

Bradford (Park Avenue) grew into the game as the half ended, having more possession of the ball, but couldn't break down the Spartans' backline.

Rio Joisce would have Blyth's best chance of the half, and with good work from Noah Millington, would get the ball to Joisce, and his effort from the left-hand side would be inches away from the top corner to give Spartans the breakthrough.

Half time: Bradford (Park Avenue) 0-0 Blyth Spartans

It would be Spartans who took the lead through striker Michael Fowler just before the hour mark, firing home from close range after a poor parry from Jack Hall in goal, gifting the striker his first goal for Blyth, giving them the lead away from home.

After the goal, Blyth sat back and allowed Bradford to heap the pressure on, and the Spartans' backline finally caved in when Connor Shanks bundled the ball in from a corner that wasn't dealt with, levelling the score and setting the final ten minutes up for a grandstand finish.

The home side would eventually get the winner with the last kick of the game from centre half & assistant coach Daniel Ellis, who had been subbed on upfront. He finished like a striker when his half volley found the bottom left corner after multiple saves from Callum Dobson to send Park Avenue into elation and break Blyth hearts after they had put in a solid display away from home against playoff opponents.

It would be a similar story for Blyth, conceding late again in matches, and, similar to the reverse fixture, after a decent display, it would be the West Yorkshire outfit who would come away with the three points, leaving Marc Nash still winless as Spartans boss.

Full time: Bradford (Park Avenue) 2-1 Blyth Spartans

Spartans are back at home next Saturday as they welcome Hallam to Croft Park for a 3:00 pm kick-off.

Goal scorers: Fowler 57', Shanks 78' & Ellis 94'

Blyth Spartans Substitutions: 25' On: Andy Evans, Off: Charlie Stirland

74' On: Jeremy Perera, Off: Michael Fowler

83' On: Dean Briggs & Kyle Downey, Off: Noah Millington & Zach Simpson

Blyth Spartans Yellow Cards: 19' Michael Fowler & 91' Dean Briggs